"Each year US Youth Soccer looks forward to spearheading the Youth Soccer Month initiative to further promote the benefits of playing this wonderful sport," said John Sutter, chair of US Youth Soccer. "The celebration furthers US Youth Soccer's mission to foster the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of America's youth through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition."

US Youth Soccer is joining in the Make Your Own Ball Day initiative this September and encourages colleges, leagues, clubs, teams and families to set time aside on Thursday, Sept. 17 to join National Make Your Own Ball Day. The mission of Make Your Own Ball Day is to use a ball to help kids create, connect, give, appreciate and play. MYOBD promotes and supports the passions of kids for sport and uses soccer as a platform for change.

“Soccer brings families together in a fun environment and this year, Youth Soccer Month hopes to encourage groups to enjoy the sport in a new fun way with National Make Your Own Ball Day,” said Todd Roby, director of marketing and communications for US Youth Soccer. “All are encouraged to join the celebration of Youth Soccer Month and see what we can do together to increase the number of people enjoying our game and furthering their own health and enjoyment.”

Throughout the month, in addition to promoting the benefits of being active through youth soccer, several chances to win soccer-related prizes will be available online. From ways to help grow the game to the annual Ball-A-Day Giveaway; follow the celebration online using #YSM2015. You’ll have a chance to win the Back-to-School, Back-to-Soccer backpack kit, Sports Authority gift cards and more.

Each week during Youth Soccer Month will focus on a different message celebrating soccer. The four messages of Youth Soccer month are:

Fun: (Week of Sept. 1)

Whether recreational or competitive in nature, involvement in soccer is easy, affordable and rewarding.

Family: (Week of Sept. 6)

Playing soccer ties families together as schedules, vacations and family time are coordinated.

Friendship: (Week of Sept. 13)

The relationships generated through playing soccer extend beyond the field.

Fitness: (Week of Sept. 20)

The health and fitness (physical, psychological and social) benefits of playing soccer.

Youth Soccer Month 2015 includes working with local leadership to organize grassroots public affairs campaigns, numerous local events and media relations initiatives. To kick off the fun, US Youth Soccer has set apart the first Wednesday, Sept. 2, to hold the fourth annual Street Soccer Day. To participate, organize a time and place for players to come together and play pick-up games.

Also, make sure you check out the Youth Soccer Month Calendar as several college events are scheduled across the country, where spectators will receive Youth Soccer Month hand fans, T-shirts, and Youth Soccer Month banners as they cheer on their team.

Join the national celebration of Youth Soccer Month today. Learn more at www.YouthSoccerMonth.org on how to get involved and share your ideas. Please contact Steve Prince at sprince@usyouthsoccer.org with questions or to get your event added to our calendar.